Patsy Lee Speevack Kaelin, 67, died Sunday, September 9, at home, holding hands with her family after living with pancreatic cancer for almost 2 years.

Born on July 14, 1951, Patsy attended Belknap, Highland, and Atherton, and earned a BA in Business from the University of Louisville. As a child, she attended Adath Jeshurun synagogue.

A lifetime Certificate Member of Lakeside Swim Club, Patsy swam for the Lakeside Masters since 1982, even competing in meets during chemotherapy. She loved summer, and she stopped treatment in May to enjoy swimming with her family. She was part of The Ladies of the Lake (her book club), who took great care of her until the end.

Patsy loved reading, crossword and logic puzzles, live music, hugs, being left-handed, swimming, John Prine songs, and her dogs (all of whom predeceased her). She never declined an invitation, was always the first to arrive and loved her friends & family fiercely. She will be remembered for her kindness, strength, determination and her most beautiful smile.

Patsy was a Kentucky Colonel, a breast-cancer survivor, a volunteer for the American Cancer Society and a huge supporter of local music. She was a state auditor for 20 years. Prior to that she worked at Highland Middle School's library and various tax offices.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Kenneth M. Kaelin, her daughter, Brigid Kaelin (David Caldwell), two grandsons (Graham and Angus), her brother Dr. Bernard Speevack (Kathleen); and a sister-in-law, Peachie. Patsy was predeceased by her parents, Evelyn Helman and Joseph Speevack, and by her brother, Perry Speevack .

Visitation will be at Highlands Funeral Home on Friday, September 14, from 2 to 6. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Hosparus Health or the Kentucky Humane Society.

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